New Jersey bill could criminalize texting while walking

Using your cellphone while crossing a street could become illegal in New Jersey, US, with violators facing either a $50 fine or a 15 days incarceration, thanks to one enthusiastic lawmaker.

“If a person on the road – whether walking or driving – presents a risk to others on the road, there should be a law in place to dissuade and penalize risky behavior,” Pamela Lampitt, Democratic Assemblywoman, who sponsored the bill– which was introduced on Monday – told local media.

She claims that with more people becoming distracted by their evolving gadgets, laws managing their use have to follow.

“Distracted pedestrians, like distracted drivers, present a potential danger to themselves and drivers on the road. A pedestrian distracted by their device and unaware of oncoming traffic may cause unsuspecting drivers to brake suddenly or swerve out of the way, creating a potentially deadly situation,” Lampitt is quoted as saying.